Škoda Superb: problems
Reliability Škoda Superb: common problems, issues symptoms and faults
- Problems with the air conditioning: these can occur after just 50-70,000 km, often due to leaks or compressor failure.
- Malfunctions of the electric windows: these often occur after 80-100,000 km, especially in the rear doors.
- Central locking system failures: These can be observed as early as 60,000 km, often due to defective door locks or control units.
- Problems with the turbocharger in diesel engines: These typically occur after 120-150,000 km.
- Defective lambda sensors: Can lead to malfunctions after just 80,000 km, especially in petrol engines.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: Petrol engine
Problems with the Škoda Superb 1.4 TSI and 1.5 TSI (EA211)
The 1.5-litre TSI engine, which was introduced from 2015, can cause jerky effects when starting up in models with manual transmission. This often occurs at low mileage of 20-30,000 km.
A software update of the engine control unit can fix the problem in many cases. Regular oil changes are also important to extend the engine's lifespan.
Problems with the Škoda Superb 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI (EA888)
The timing chain on TSI engines can stretch, which can cause a rattling noise during a cold start. This problem often occurs between 100,000 and 150,000 km.
Preventive replacement of the timing chain and tensioner system at around 100,000 km can avoid expensive consequential damage. Regular oil changes are also important.
The 2.0 TSI with 280 hp tends to have increased oil consumption. Regularly check the oil level and top up if necessary. Due to the design, the high consumption cannot be completely eliminated.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: Diesel
1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI (common rail)
Problems with the AdBlue system can occur in 2.0-litre 150 hp and 190 hp TDI engines manufactured between 2009 and 2018. Clogged injectors or pump failures are typical complications that usually occur between 80,000 and 120,000 km.
Regular cleaning of the AdBlue system and the use of high-quality AdBlue can prevent such difficulties. In the event of failures, the affected components such as injectors or pumps must be replaced.
1.9 TDI and 2.0 TDI (pump-nozzle system)
The 1.9 TDI with the engine code BLS can be affected by connecting rod bearing damage. The 2.0 TDI can develop problems with the pump-nozzle elements.
Regular maintenance and oil changes can help to minimise these difficulties. If they occur, the affected components must be replaced.
General diesel problems
Soot build-up on injectors and in the EGR valve can lead to costly repairs.
The preventative use of fuel injector cleaning additives, added regularly at every refuelling, can help to prevent or at least delay these problems.
It is important to note that not every vehicle will have all of these complications and that regular servicing can prevent or minimise many of them. However, when buying a used Škoda Superb, it is worth being aware of these potential issues and having the vehicle thoroughly checked.
Škoda Superb issues: timing chain
The timing chain on TSI engines, particularly on 2011-2015 models, can stretch, causing a rattling noise during cold starts. This problem often occurs between 100,000 and 150,000 km. Preventive replacement of the timing chain is recommended.
Solution: Preventive replacement of the timing chain and tensioner system at around 100,000 km can avoid expensive consequential damage. Regular oil changes are also important.
Problems with the Škoda Superb DSG transmission
The 7-speed DSG transmission, used since 2009, can occasionally have difficulties with jerky shifts or delayed start-up. These complications often occur between 50,000 and 100,000 km. A software update or an oil change can help.
A software update of the transmission control unit can also often help. Changing the transmission fluid and filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations is also important.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: automatic transmission
On models with the 6-speed automatic transmission, especially on vehicles between 2013 and 2018, errors in the transmission control unit can occur from around 120,000 km, which can result in hard shifting.
A software update of the transmission control unit can often fix this problem. In some cases, it may also be necessary to replace the control unit or the mechatronics.
The start button, which has been installed since 2015, can occasionally fail, making it impossible to start the engine. This problem can occur quite early, often within the first 50,000 km.
In most cases, the start button must be replaced. A thorough diagnosis in a specialist workshop is also advisable.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: electric tailgate
The electric tailgate on estate models, available since 2009, can suffer from intermittent sensor or opening mechanism failures. These problems often occur between 50,000 and 100,000 km.
Depending on the cause, the sensors or the entire opening mechanism may need to be adjusted or replaced. A diagnosis at a specialist garage is recommended.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: air suspension
The optional air suspension, available since 2015, can develop problems with leaks or the compressor, often between 80,000 and 120,000 km.
Leaking air springs or faulty compressors must be replaced. Regular inspection of the system can help to detect defects at an early stage.
Faults with the Škoda Superb: Brakes
Premature wear of the front brake discs and pads is not uncommon, often after just 30,000 to 50,000 km.
Regular inspection and timely replacement of brake discs and pads are important. The use of high-quality brake components can extend service life.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: panoramic roof
The optional panoramic roof, which has been offered since 2009, can tend to leak or have problems with the opening mechanism, often within the first 50,000 km.
Leaks can often be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the seals. If there are problems with the opening mechanism, the affected components will need to be repaired or replaced.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: 4x4 (all-wheel drive)
The all-wheel drive (4x4), which has been available as an option since 2009, can occasionally have problems with the Haldex clutch, which can lead to a loss of power. These faults usually occur after 100,000 km.
It may be necessary to replace the Haldex clutch or the control unit. Regular oil changes in the all-wheel-drive system in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions are therefore important.
Problems with the Škoda Superb: hybrid drive
The plug-in hybrid models (from 2020) can have problems with battery performance and capacity. It is not uncommon for the capacity to decrease faster than expected, often within the first 50,000 km. It remains to be seen how these models will develop between now and 2024.
Regular battery checks and adjustments to the charging cycles can help to extend its lifespan. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the battery or individual cells.
Additional common faults in the Škoda Superb
Based on the reviews of Škoda Superb drivers, we present an overview of additional possible problems:
- Radiator leaks: these often occur after 100-120,000 km, especially in older models.
- Malfunctions of the electric power steering: These can occur after 90,000 km, often due to defective sensors.
- Breakdowns of the parking assistance: These usually occur after 70-90,000 km, often due to defective sensors.
- Problems with the starter: These can occur after 100,000 km, especially with frequent short-distance trips.
- Tailgate seal leaks: Often occur after just 50-70,000 km, especially in estate cars.
These complications are not to be expected in every vehicle, but they can occur in some cases. Regular maintenance and adhering to the service intervals will help to detect and rectify many of these defects at an early stage.
5 November 2024 
